By Barbara J. Woerner
Correspondent

VIRGINIA BEACH

Some Cape Henry Collegiate students are taking the lead to help other students understand and respect diversity within the school.

Members of Students United to Embrace Diversity, or SUED, kicked off their "Stop Saying Stupid Stuff" campaign earlier this month during assembly with a skit titled "Thanksgiving at the S-4 Cafe."

The presentation, containing stereotyping comments, depicted a group of students attempting to have Thanksgiving together. Comments included negative or sarcastic references about Passover, black Americans, homosexuals, Christianity and women.

At the skit's end, a short discussion period hammered home the point.

"It's important to stand up for your own values, but you have to realize that people don't all share the same beliefs," said English teacher and SUED co-sponsor Lawana Burroughs. "Be respectful of other people sharing their values."

Upper school director Doug Wine also addressed the students.

"Silence can be almost as bad as saying certain things," he said. "If you are offended by what someone says, let them know. Don't let it go so far that students end up fighting over a misunderstanding. "

Senior Darrian Freeman thought the skit helped reinforce awareness of campus diversity.

"I thought it was good as a reminder to help people understand that some things they say can offend others," the teen said. "Some people don't realize how they offend others so I think this will help."

SUED formed eight years ago to help promote understanding of the different cultures and beliefs represented within the student body. Members promote understanding of differences in regard to race, gender, sexuality, religion, economics, disability or nationality.

"We began to recognize that our campus was becoming more diverse, and we used to have mediators to settle differences," said Sammie Logan, choral director and SUED co-sponsor. "We wanted to get the students involved in regards to diversity, and the club was formed."

Senior B rittany Agrillo said she has encountered biased remarks from others.

"We have to learn other people's beliefs and learn to work together, even if you disagree. The worst thing is when you hate a whole class of people for one little thing," the senior said.

She added, "I'm not preaching, but I'll get the sarcastic 'only because you're a Christian' comment.' "

Agrillo and Jasmine Marshall, another SUED member, think the club is making progress in raising student awareness.

"I joined because this is a majority Caucasian school, and there are very few African Americans here," said Marshall. "I hope to help anyone understand who doesn't that you can disrespect or hurt someone with your words and not even realize it."

SUED members challenge other students to find other terms to replace words such as "gay" or "retarded" when describing a situation.

"We're making people look at stereotypes," said member Bryce Northington. "At 17 years of age, you shouldn't be a bigot."